Remote Assessment of Cognition, Affect, and Motor Function in Ataxias
This study aims to better understand how different brain and body functions (movement, speech, thinking skills, and mood) are affected in spinocerebellar ataxias, and how these functions change over the short-term and long-term. Ultimately, we hope to help improve how these symptoms are understood and managed in the clinic, and how they are measured in future clinical trials.
Visit study website: www.monash.edu/medicine/ccs/neuroscience/research/harding-group/spinocerebellar-ataxias-remote-assessment-study
About the Study
Eligible Ataxia Types
SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, SCA6, Individuals without a SCA
Type of Study
Research Study
Clinical Trial Phase
N/A
Age Range
Adult 18+
Study Start Date
05/01/2021
Estimated Completion Date
N/A
IRB Approval #
Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee Project #26568
Location(s)
Monash University, Department of Neuroscience
Remote Study
Contact Information
SCA-Remote Study Team
harding.lab@monash.edu
Phone: +61 492 923 663
Dr. Ian Harding
ian.harding@monash.edu
What does participation in the study entail?
This is a 2-year study. Participation involves completing a series of online computer tasks (including thinking tasks and surveys) each month. The tasks take about 30 minutes in total each month. The tasks can be completed at the time and location of your convenience. We may also invite you to meet one of our researchers virtually to conduct additional assessments each year – this is optional.
What are the potential benefits for participants?
There will be no direct benefit to participants from participating in this research. It is hoped that the results of this research will help to improve clinical care and clinical trial design, ultimately leading to improved quality of life and treatment options for spinocerebellar ataxias.
What are the potential risks for participants?
Potential risks may include feelings of discomfort or distress when completing surveys about thinking skills and mood – if this occurs, the research team can arrange for appropriate support.
Is there financial compensation?
No.
Is there travel reimbursement?
No.
Who is eligible?
English-speaking individuals with SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, and SCA6, and individuals without a SCA who have access to a home computer and the internet may be eligible to take part. This is a remote, online study – individuals anywhere in the world can participate.
Additional Information or Resources
View Other Research Opportunities
Biomarkers for Ataxia and Multiple System Atrophy
The purpose of this study is to identify biomarkers for cerebellar ataxia with unknown etiology and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Biomarkers are substances that may diagnose diseases, predict how the Read More…
Social network analysis in ataxia patients: exploring correlations with quality of life and functional outcomes
The potential importance of social networks for quality of life and wellbeing in patients with ataxia has received little attention to date. We aim to explore the importance of social Read More…
Cerebellar Involvement in Cognitive Sequencing
This study uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate the cognitive functions of the cerebellum in individuals with and without Spinocerebellar Ataxia. For Aim1 of the study, we will examine Read More…
